The Tule Lake Public Access Area is open from March 1 through September 30 each year. The public access area consists of approximately 400 acres of seasonal wetlands with a one-mile auto route, several miles of trails and a restroom. An ADA accessible boardwalk and viewing platform, near the end of the auto route, was completed in 2009. Thanks to John chadwick and his helpers for his Eagle Scout Project, an ADA accessible viewing blind also was completed near the south end of the public access area in 2009 and should offer great viewing opportunities in 2010 and beyond.
Thanks to Mitchell Henry and participants in his Eagle Scout project, the trails on the Tule Lake Public Access Area have been named, the length of each measured and signs placed to help visitors follow their intended path.
The Glass Hill Unit is open to access April 11 through December 31 for wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding and other activities. Motorized travel is prohibited. Be aware that this unit is open to game bird and big game hunting during authorized seasons; wearing blaze orange is recommended at these times.
The Nature Trail, with its entrance just east of Interstate 84, is open to hiking and wildlife viewing year-round. Hunting and motorized travel beyond the parking area are prohibited on the Nature Trail. While the wetlands associated with this 1.25 mile trail have become overgrown with time, raptors, passerines and other birds may still be found in the area.
All units of the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area except Refuges and Safety Zones and except Glass Hill during the winter closure period, are open to access Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and State Holidays during the pheasant, quail and waterfowl seasons. Motorized travel is prohibited. The area is closed between 10:00 pm and 4:00 am. Access during this time is not limited to hunting but is open to all users. There will be times of day, time of the season and area of the wildlife area with little or no hunting activity. Birders are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to view the marsh’s winter residents.
